The timetable for negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, as specified in the Road Map for peace, is unrealistic, Internal Security Minister Avi Dichter declared Wednesday.

During a visit to the IDF Reception and Sorting Base to meet with fresh recruits to the Border Guard police, Dichter commented on the Annapolis peace conference,
its prospects and the risks it carries.

"Stage one is the Road Map, to which the Palestinians will be have to adhere. The Road Map stipulates a two-year timetable, and the Palestinians have not met it. The timetable was unrealistic to begin with. Its is still unrealistic, but it sets a direction, and what will eventually decide the outcome will be the Palestinians' performance.

"I believe that by the end of 2008, we'll have a better idea regarding their performance. This could lead to a very positive, significant process."

Dichter added that while he trusted the sincerity of the Palestinians' intentions, "Their performance amounts to zero."

Turning his attention to the state of high alert declared following the peace summit, the minister said, "The state of alert will correspond with what happens on the ground. We will asses the situation and make decisions on Thursday.

"The IDF and the police were properly prepared for the task, and allowed the conference to go by peacefully."